Shirleen Joy Ciarletta

Shirleen Joy Ciarletta, a loving and cherished soul, departed this world unexpectedly on February 28, 2025, at the age of 76. Born on September 21, 1948, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Shirleen was not only a devoted wife and mother but also a beloved grandmother and-grandmother who embraced moments of her life with joy and laughter.

For 60 wonderful years, Shirleen shared her life with her adoring husband, Richard Ciarletta. Together, they crafted a beautiful life, filled with love and laughter. Shirleen was a proud mother to Christina (Rodney) Caserta and Rick (Shannon) Ciarletta. Her legacy expands through her beloved grandchildren: Paige Newman, Andrew Newman, Danielle (Daniel Reichwein) Ciarletta, and Emily Ciarletta. As a great-grandmother, she relished the time spent with Maylan, Mia, Aubrey, Weston, Brynnleigh, and her newest family member due in April 2025, Halijah. Additionally, Shirleen's fur babies, Shadow and Jackpot, along with her fur grandbabies: Rocket Rae, Cutlass, Calais, and Rallye, brought her immense comfort and companionship.

Shirleen graduated with Rich in Pennsylvania from Moon High School in 1966 and they relocated to Ohio in 1967.  She chose to dedicate her life to raising an amazing family, which she fondly described as her proudest accomplishment. Her home was a haven filled with warmth, laughter, and her unmistakable spirit. Those who knew Shirleen would recount her loving, quiet demeanor, her unique sense of humor (although sometimes warped just like the rest of her family), and her thoughtful approach to life. Always prepared for any situation, she was the epitome of thoughtfulness.

Shirleen's many interests revealed a crafty soul who poured love into everything she created. Her culinary skills were unmatched, bringing the family together for memorable Christmas dinners and joyful baking sessions with her grandchildren. A passion for quilting earned her first place at the car show quilting contest with her very first blanket, a testament to both her creativity and determination. She was also a four time cancer survivor. 

Among her collection of about 3,000 owls, each piece represented a story, a memory, or a moment in time that stirred her heart. She found joy in the thrill of drag racing and the camaraderie of car shows alongside Rich, as they made countless cherished memories together.

Shirleen was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Lois Young, and her brother, Dave Young. Though they are no longer with us, their presence will forever be felt in the hearts of those who loved her.

As we reflect on Shirleen Joy Ciarletta's life, we remember a woman whose loving spirit touched everyone she met. Her warmth, her laughter, and her unyielding love for her family will live on in the hearts and memories of all who were fortunate enough to know her.

In lieu of flowers and in honor of Shirleen's brave battle with breast cancer please consider a donation to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.